MBW Co. marks 40th year in New Ulm, 15th year of employee ownership

Clay Schuldt

Staff Writer

cschuldt@nujournal.com

Staff photo by Clay Schuldt
MBW Company CEO Ric Nelson (left) stands by while Mayor Robert Buessman signs a proclamation declaring the next week Direct Support Professional’s Recognition Week. The proclamation was signed and delivered during MBW’s 40th anniversary celebration.

NEW ULM — In 1978, MBW Company came to New Ulm and Friday night the employees and people served by the company celebrated its 40th anniversary at the New Ulm Civic Center.

MBW was founded by Mark and Brenda Wiger. The company is acronym for their names. The Wigers were special educators and they recognized the need to provide opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to reintegrate into the local community.

The company’s first group home provided service to eight individuals. Today the company serves 114 individuals in the region which includes Mankato and Bird Island.

MBW CEO Ric Nelson said they employ 187 people, but have positions open for 214. Anyone looking for a position in the Direct Support Profession is encourage to apply.

Nelson said in addition to MBW celebrating 40 years in New Ulm and 15 years as an employee owned business, they were recognizing National Direct Support Professional Week, which runs Sept. 9 through Sept. 15.

Mayor Robert Beussman attended the celebration and signed a proclamation declaring the next week Direct Support Professional’s Recognition Week.

The proclamation stated that Direct Support Professionals is one of the fastest growing positions in America in terms of demand, but low wages and demographic trends are creating a growing shortage of professionals in this field, leading to burnout and increased turnover.

The proclamation will help to raise awareness for addressing the issues facing this workforce.